New Anti-Dumping Rules

Summary

The EU is deciding how to treat China under anti-dumping investigations, as part of its international trade commitments.

China is not yet a “market economy”, subsidising its industries and artificially setting prices. Because of massive overcapacities, Chinese enterprises dump more products into Europe than any other country. Strong trade defence instruments are needed to protect European industries and jobs.

50%

increase

in Chinese exports of semi-finished metals to Europe since 2007

Why it's important

By treating China as a market economy, the EU would licence unlimited dumping from Chinese enterprises, endangering the metals industry and its 500,000 workers.

China’s non-ferrous metals production has risen dramatically over the last decade to exceed 40 million tonnes, compared to stagnant EU production at half that amount. This has caused overcapacities in many metals sectors, and increased exports into Europe.

China’s aluminium overcapacity: 5x times higher than EU primary production

What we are seeking

Eurometaux works through AEGIS Europe, an alliance of manufacturers from over 30 sectors, including steel, ceramics, solar panels, car parts, train builders, textiles, bicycles and many others.

Together, we’re calling for improved legal clarity to the European Commission's July 2016 proposal:

Use of a non-standard anti-dumping methodology, once distortions have been established

Burden of proof on the exporting producer, rather than shifting to EU industry

A clear definition of what counts as a "significant distortion", linked to the EU's five market economy criteria

A formal process for proving distortions, including mandatory and exhaustive Commission reports